Purple Door

Published May 28, 2020

About them

It’s often said that small businesses are the backbone of economy. But it goes beyond purchase transactions to the unique character they infuse into our community. It’s truly about the people behind them. We’re fortunate to live in a region where plentiful shopping options exist beyond big box stores, especially now as we seek to limit our physical interactions and increase our meaningful connections.

Purple Door is a retail store and meeting place in downtown Galt (Cambridge). Elizabeth Moore opened her business in 2017 with the goal of creating a welcoming environment for visitors to heal and journey with one another. The store is filled with beautiful gift items including locally produced artwork and jewellery, books and journals, metaphysical supplies, salt lamps, candles, crystals and so much more. They also offer classes and workshops for many interests and age levels, many of which have a spiritual focus.

Their challenge

The pandemic has closed the doors of many businesses “in our own backyard”. While we hope this situation is temporary, store closure creates a huge challenge to stay afloat with the ongoing need to pay rent and fixed costs, with little or no income. Previous to COVID-19 we experienced great momentum in revitalizing our downtowns. We need to act for our downtown businesses to continue to flourish.

Although legally permitted, Purple Door is not open to the public at this time – first and foremost, Elizabeth wants to be responsible. She is concerned about the health of her family and the wider community, especially those with pre-existing health conditions. The resulting loss of income has a negative ripple effect to the local vendors, practitioners and artisans Purple Door supports.

Their response

Local businesses are pivoting to find ways to offer their distinct goods and services, despite having small budgets for advertising and technology. Many have moved online, selling through their website and/or social media platforms, combined with curbside pickup and/or delivery. There has never been greater opportunity to shop online.

Purple Door is primarily operating via Facebook for now. Visit their business page to peruse the photo albums of available items. To purchase, simply message Elizabeth through Facebook and then pay by e-transfer before arranging curb-side pickup. On Facebook, you can also request virtual one-on-one readings or healings. Elizabeth looks forward to the time when she can reopen safely and responsibly. Until then, as a community, let’s support those who put community first.

Purple Door is rated 4.9/5 on Google with rave reviews. They are one of the businesses on shopcambridge.ca, as found here.